Paper short abstract:

Within the KASS project we drew up maps of relevant kin in an Austrian rural setting. We obtained huge family trees with up to three hundred persons. I will discuss possible reasons for the construction of these huge kin-groups within the theoretical framework of reciprocity and social capital.

Paper long abstract:

"In a way, of course, they belong to us", an old woman proudly told me replying to my somewhat irritated question whether she really thinks that the grandparents of the new girl-friend of her grandson should be included

in her family tree.

Within the scope of the KASS (Kinship and Social Security) project we drew up family trees or maps of relevant kin in an Austrian rural setting. A great number of huge maps with up to three hundred related persons were the result. These huge maps are not due to genealogical depth but are rather an outcome of the inclusion of in-laws in the group of kin. At the same time, self-reliance is highly valued, and the old woman mentioned above would prefer staying at home rather than asking her son or her daughter in-law for

a ride.

In my paper I will try to trace and discuss possible reasons for the construction of these huge kin-groups within the theoretical framework of reciprocity and social capital.